Government to extend free breakfast clubs to 2,000 more schools

The government has announced that its free breakfast club scheme will be rolled out in 2,000 additional schools from April 2026. 

The expansion is expected to give around half a million more children access to free breakfasts, while parents could save time and childcare costs. The scheme is backed by £80m of government funding.

According to education secretary Bridget Phillipson, the rollout would “deliver real change for families” by reducing pressure on parents and supporting pupils’ education.

The measure fulfils a manifesto pledge to make breakfast clubs available in all state primary schools. At present, 750 schools run the scheme under an early adopter programme.

Officials said research from the pilot suggested the clubs improved attendance, attainment and behaviour. They estimated that families could save up to £450 a year in childcare costs and reclaim around 95 hours of time otherwise spent on childcare.

The breakfast club initiative forms part of wider plans to support working families, which also include the expansion of free childcare for parents of young children and the rollout of Best Start Family Hubs offering parenting support and activities.

Further details on how schools can apply to join the scheme will be published by the Department for Education later this year.